A2verb 1K

Steal

🇬🇧 UK /["/stiːl/","/stiːlz/","/stəʊl/","/ˈstəʊlən/","/ˈstiːlɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/stiːl/","/stiːlz/","/stəʊl/","/ˈstəʊlən/","/ˈstiːlɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Steal

to take something from a person, shop, etc. without permission and without intending to return it or pay for it

In simple words: To take something that doesn't belong to you.

Steal in a sentence

• He tried to steal a bike from the park.
• The thief plans to steal money from the bank.
• Don’t steal my ideas; it's not fair!
• She stole a glance at her friends across the room.
• The artist seems to steal inspiration from nature.

How to use Steal

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Often implies wrongdoing. Avoid in polite conversation unless discussing theft as a crime.

Grammar pattern

steal + object

Memory hint

Think of a thief quietly 'stealing' cookies from a jar.

Related words

Collocations with Steal

• steal money
• steal a car
• steal someone's heart
• steal ideas
• steal a glance

Synonyms for Steal

• creep

Opposites of Steal

• give
• return
• donate

Common mistakes with Steal

• Confused with 'rob' - 'steal' refers to taking items, while 'rob' involves using force.
• Using 'steal' with an inanimate object wrongly. It's generally used for tangible items.
• Incorrect past tense form: 'steal' should become 'stole', not 'stealed'.

Frequently asked questions about Steal

What does Steal mean?

To take something that doesn't belong to you.

What is the definition of Steal?

to take something from a person, shop, etc. without permission and without intending to return it or pay for it

How do you use Steal in a sentence?

He tried to steal a bike from the park.

Can you give another example of Steal?

The thief plans to steal money from the bank.

What are synonyms for Steal?

Common alternatives include creep.

What is the opposite of Steal?

Opposite meanings include give, return, donate.

What words go with Steal?

It commonly pairs with steal money, steal a car, steal someone's heart, steal ideas, steal a glance.

What are common mistakes when using Steal?

Confused with 'rob' - 'steal' refers to taking items, while 'rob' involves using force. Using 'steal' with an inanimate object wrongly. It's generally used for tangible items. Incorrect past tense form: 'steal' should become 'stole', not 'stealed'.

How do you pronounce Steal?

US: /["/stiːl/","/stiːlz/","/stəʊl/","/ˈstəʊlən/","/ˈstiːlɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/stiːl/","/stiːlz/","/stəʊl/","/ˈstəʊlən/","/ˈstiːlɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Steal?

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Often implies wrongdoing. Avoid in polite conversation unless discussing theft as a crime.

What CEFR level is Steal?

"Steal" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.